Royal Caribbean News Round-up: July 21, 2024

In:
21 Jul 2024

Happy Sunday! We hope you are having a great weekend! Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and catch up on all the Royal Caribbean news from the week!

Window on Royal Railway

Matt tried the newest cruise ship dining experience on Utopia of the Seas: the Royal Railway.

The Wild-West-themed train car hosts a one-of-a-kind dining and entertainment experience.

The unique and visually stunning venue was unlike any other specialty restaurant he'd tried. Royal Caribbean's Royal Railway Utopia Station pushes the envelope of what's possible on a cruise ship.

Royal Caribbean News

New RCB Video: Everything I loved and hated about the world’s newest cruise ship

Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video — Everything I loved and hated about the world’s newest cruise ship — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Meghan Trainor christens new cruise ship

Meghan Trainor on Utopia of the Seas

Meghan Trainor, famous singer-songwriter, American Idol judge, and Godmother of Utopia of the Seas, helped christen the new cruise ship on Monday.

The newest and second biggest cruise ship in the world, which launched on its inaugural cruise this weekend, hosted a launch party with Ms. Trainor present.

She helped break a bottle of champagne against the bow, a tradition meant to bring good luck to the vessel and its passengers.

Curfew for kids on a cruise ship? Royal Caribbean CEO wants to revisit the policy

An increased amount of cruisers are starting to complain about out-of-control kids onboard Royal Caribbean ships.

At a talk on Utopia of the Seas, Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean International president and CEO, admitted that it could be time for the cruise line to review its policies.

To help adults enjoy a more peaceful vacation, Royal Caribbean will be revisiting its kid's curfew policy and Adventure Ocean activities.

Weekend cruises: Tips for taking a 3-night Royal Caribbean getaway

Utopia of the Seas at CocoCay

Looking to save money and PTO hours? 

A 3-night weekend cruise provides the opportunity to take a short but sweet vacation.

To help you decide on a ship, destination, and budget, we've compiled some tips for taking a Royal Caribbean weekend cruise.

Royal Caribbean News Round-up: July 14, 2024

In:
14 Jul 2024

Happy Sunday! We hope you are having a great weekend! Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and catch up on all the Royal Caribbean news from the week!

Utopia of the Seas launches in just one week, and we have our first look at what this new Royal Caribbean cruise ship looks like.

Utopia of the Seas in Port Canaveral

Photo by Port Canaveral

Royal Caribbean revealed everything new and different on the ship, which has a renewed focus on dining, expanding Izumi, adding outdoor seating to Giovanni's, and introducing the Spare Tire.

The new Pesky Parrot tiki bar will replace the Bionic Bar, and The Royal Railway will introduce a new train car dining experience to the fleet.

Royal Caribbean News

New RCB Video: Boarding the world’s newest cruise ship: 7 hours on Utopia of the Seas

Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video — Boarding the world’s newest cruise ship: 7 hours on Utopia of the Seas — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Royal Caribbean's private beach club in Mexico looks stunning

Mexico beach club

Royal Caribbean's exclusive beach club in Cozumel, Mexico, is set to open in 2026.

Although there's still a lot of progress to be made, we took a look at some sneak peek photos shared in a webinar this week.

New details include great views, with access to 17 acres of beaches, pools, and scenery.

Icon of the Seas is Royal Caribbean's best cruise ship ever

Matt thinks Icon of the Seas is the best ship

New cruise ships always have a certain amount of hype to them, but Icon of the Seas seems to have earned it all.

After sailing on Icon again, Matt thinks it's easily the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship he's sailed on and raises the standard all other cruise ships are judged against.

From the innovations added, to the superior dining choices, and lack of crowds, Icon of the Seas is Matt's favorite ship.

Royal Caribbean will not give away free Wi-Fi on its cruise ships, CEO says

ebook reader

Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean International recently explained why WiFi on Royal Caribbean ships is so expensive.

The cruise line doesn't plan on giving away WiFi like hotels on land, and there's a good reason why.

Cruise ships must get their Internet from satellites in space, which costs a lot more to maintain.

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

Icon of the Seas in Costa Maya

The 539th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available.

Does Icon of the Seas still hold up months after her debut? Matt shares his thoughts while onboard Icon with Beci Mahnken from MEI Travel.

Please feel free to subscribe via iTunes or RSS, and head over to rate and review the podcast on iTunes if you can! We’d appreciate it.

Royal Caribbean News Round-Up: July 7, 2024

In:
07 Jul 2024

Happy Sunday! I hope you are having a wonderful weekend and are ready to catch up on all the Royal Caribbean news from this week!

One cruise passenger swears she will be a Royal Caribbean fan for life, thanks to the medical attention she received onboard a cruise ship.

Woman is customer for life now

An emergency medical procedure meant one woman's cruise seemed like it would be lost, but Royal Caribbean waived the cancellation terms and offered her a chance to change sailings for a nominal fee.

"I’m so grateful for their kindness and compassion, fully knowing it was saw something they didn’t have to do," she wrote in her summary.

Royal Caribbean News

New RCB Video: What happens when a cruise is OVERBOOKED

Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video — What happens when a cruise is OVERBOOKED — and don’t forget to subscribe to our channel.

Meghan Trainor named godmother of new Royal Caribbean ship

Meghan Trainor named godmother to Utopia of the Seas

Meghan Trainor is about to add godmother to her many titles.

Royal Caribbean announced she will serve as godmother to its newest cruise ship, Utopia of the Seas.

The cruise line also announced a contest to give away to 52 winners free sailings on the July 15 departure of Utopia on the three-night cruise that will name the new ship.

Steak and lobster are still available in the buffet of the world's largest cruise ship

Steak and lobster choices

The embarkation day lunch on Icon of the Seas features a wide selection of food, including filet mignon and lobster tail.

It's unusual for the buffet to offer these premium items, but Icon has been serving it up on embarkation day ever since the ship debuted in January.

As you walk into the Windjammer on embarkation day, there is a selection of freshly grilled filet mignon steaks on the first buffet line. along with lobster and shrimp.

A look at the Icon Loft Suite that costs over $35,000 for a week

Icon-Loft-Suite-6

What do you get for a suite that costs over $5,000 per night?

The Icon Loft Suite is one of the top suites on Icon of the Seas, and it comes with the best perks available onboard.

Measuring 656 square feet, with a balcony that falls anywhere between 108 and 172 square feet, there's also the Royal Genie services that come with it.

Royal Caribbean News Round-Up: June 30, 2024

In:
30 Jun 2024

Happy Sunday! Hope you are having a relaxing weekend and enjoying summer! It is time to sit back, relax, and catch up on all the recent Royal Caribbean news!

There was a fire on Icon of the Seas earlier this week.

Icon of the Seas in St Thomas

The cruise ship was docked in Costa Maya, Mexico when the small fire occurred in a crew member area, resulting in a brief power loss.

Luckily the fire was contained quickly and extinguished without any injuries.

Royal Caribbean News

Ways People Cheat The Royal Caribbean Drink Package

Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video — Ways People Cheat The Royal Caribbean Drink Package — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

How to Avoid Paying Unexpected Fees on Royal Caribbean

north star on odyssey of the seas

How can you avoid being shocked by extra charges on your final cruise bill?

Your base fare for a Royal Caribbean cruise includes access to a stateroom, most dining venues, and entertainment. It's a key draw of cruising.

However, Royal Caribbean cruises aren't all-inclusive and certain items cost extra.

Some of these extra fees may surprise you—don't be caught off guard!

2025 President's Cruise Date

President's Cruise 2025 is on Utopia of the Seas

Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley announced that next year's President's Cruise will happen on the newest Royal Caribbean ship.

The 2025 President's Cruise will be held on Utopia of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest addition to the Oasis Class.

The cruise line is inviting passengers to join Mr. Bayley on the September 22, 2025 sailing.

"Unforeseen weather events" are top concern for cruise ships, according to Royal Caribbean's meteorologist

Royal Caribbean is the only cruise line that has meteorologists on staff, tracking the weather and planning ahead for any itinerary changes. 

Craig Setzer, Royal Caribbean Group Chief Meteorologist, works daily and stays ahead of the curve to protect cruise ships from any inclement weather.

According to Setzer, the biggest concern for cruise ships and their passengers are "unforeseen weather events," events that aren't visible on the forecast.

Here are 5 things I wish I'd known before sailing in the Mediterranean

Calista recently sailed the Mediterranean for her second time, and she learned some important lessons through the experience.

Cruises to the Caribbean are the most well-known, but a Mediterranean cruise provides a great opportunity to see amazing artistic, historical, and natural sites.

If you're looking forward to trying a cruise to this underrated region, there are some essential details you should know first.

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 538th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available.

As Matt goes over listener emails, get the answers to all your burning questions.

Is traditional dining better than My Time? Where can you bring the soda package cup? 

Please feel free to subscribe via iTunes or RSS, and head over to rate and review the podcast on iTunes if you can! We’d appreciate it.

Royal Caribbean News Round-Up: June 23, 2024

In:
23 Jun 2024

Happy Sunday! Hope you are having a relaxing weekend and enjoying summer! It is time to sit back, relax, and catch up on all the recent Royal Caribbean news!

Royal Caribbean has revealed the new shows and parties on its newest mega-ship, Utopia of the Seas.

Utopia of the Seas entertainment

The entertainment lineup on this Oasis Class ship has everything from original productions to late-night comedy shows.

Royal Caribbean plans to continue the Oasis Class tradition with an AquaTheater show and an ice skating performance. 

Plus, countless parties and live musicians provide entertainment late into the night.

Royal Caribbean News

New RCB Video: I booked CHEAP 4 and 5 night cruises. Was it worth it?

Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video — I booked CHEAP 4 and 5 night cruises. Was it worth it? — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 537th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available.

Matt recently sailed a 5-night Bermuda cruise on Liberty of the Seas with his family and shares everything that surprised him about the sailing.

Please feel free to subscribe via iTunes or RSS, and head over to rate and review the podcast on iTunes if you can! We’d appreciate it.

A look inside the crew member cabins on Utopia of the Seas

Utopia-Crew-Cabin-Hero

What do the crew member cabins look like on the second biggest cruise ship in the world?

A new video shows exactly what one crew cabin looks like on Utopia of the Seas, and it's definitely small.

While it's a private cabin, it does have a shared bathroom.

7 new things coming to Utopia of the Seas, including a giant slide and train restaurant

Close up of Spare Tire concept aty

Royal Caribbean's newest cruise ship, "The World's Biggest Weekend," is meant to appeal to passengers hesitant to book a weeklong cruise, and it's brimming with exciting features.

This vessel is weeks away from beginning guest cruises and Royal Caribbean is starting to reveal several brand-new features that can't be found on any other Oasis Class ship.

From a new category of Suite stateroom to the longest dry slide at sea, here are the new things available on Utopia of the Seas.

4 Ways to Tell If You're Getting a Good Deal on Your Cruise

How can you be sure your cruise vacation is coming at the best value?

Royal Caribbean has tempting sales every week, from BOGO deals to percentages off the price.

These deals may look good on the surface, but it's important to double-check that you're actually getting a good deal.

I took my first solo cruise on Royal Caribbean's biggest cruise ships. After 7 nights, here are the pros and cons of cruising alone

Calista took her first solo cruise on an Oasis Class ship and was surprised at the experience. 

Like every sailing, cruising alone has its pros and cons. 

After spending seven nights onboard Oasis of the Seas for a Mediterranean sailing, here's Calista's review on solo cruising.

Royal Caribbean News Round-Up: June 16, 2024

In:
16 Jun 2024

Happy Sunday! I would like to wish all the dads out there a very Happy Father’s Day! Hope you get to have a relaxing and fun-filled day with your family!

Utopia of the Seas was delivered to Royal Caribbean, which means she is officially part of the fleet.

Utopia-Ceremony

At a ceremony at the shipyard in France, the 18-deck ship was handed over to the cruise line and is now poised to offer cruises next month.

Utopia will offer 3- and 4-night cruises in order to capitalize on the weekend cruise market.

Royal Caribbean News

New RCB Video: 5 MORE Things You Should NEVER TRUST on Your Cruise

Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video — 5 MORE Things You Should NEVER TRUST on Your Cruise — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

What happens when a cruise is overbooked

Oversold cruise

An oversold cruise ship is not uncommon, but usually it doesn't result in anyone being unable to cruise.

Earlier this month guests on a Symphony of the Seas sailing were asked if they'd consider changing their cruise because the ship was oversold.

They were offered essentially a full refund and a free cruise if they took the offer.

The biggest cruise ships in the world actually shrink to fit under bridges

Stacks retracted

In order for an Oasis Class cruise ship to make into New York harbor, the ship actually shrinks.

In a feat of engineering, some of Royal Caribbean's cruise ships can retract their funnels to make them small enough to fit under certain bridges.

Symphony of the Seas is the latest ship to need to do this in order to make it under the Verrazzano Narrows bridge.

I booked a room near the stairs on a low deck and it made my vacation better

Cabin near the stairs

I stayed in cabins on a lower deck than usual and near the stairs, and I really liked this location.

In fact, I've started booking cabins that are on a lower deck and near the staircases, and it's made my enjoyment of the cruise far better.

While it may not offer views of a higher deck, the convenience factor is worth it.

Royal Caribbean News Round Up: June 9, 2024

In:
09 Jun 2024

Happy Sunday! We hope you are having a great weekend and ready to talk a little Royal Caribbean.

There are easy ways to save money on cruises with a family, thanks to a few tricks I've learned.

Bumper cars on Odyssey

After more than 44 cruises with my kids, Matt has figured out a few ways to save money along the way.

Cruising with the whole family has become more and more popular on Royal Caribbean ships.

Royal Caribbean News

5 Reasons to CRUISE SOLO (and 1 reason not to)

Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video — 5 Reasons to CRUISE SOLO (and 1 reason not to) — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Cruiser complains about "obstructed" balcony and sparks Internet backlash

A cruiser who recently sailed on Icon of the Seas took to the Internet to ask if her balcony view should be considered obstructed.

In her viral TikTok, @abbiesnormal asks if the railing below her balcony is considered an obstruction.

Thousands of commenters responded, most of them disagreeing with Abbie's categorization. 

How a Gen Z trend is changing the cruise drink menu

Gen Z drinks

Studies have found that Gen Z is more and more sober-curious, often opting for non-alcoholic beverages.

To meet the shifting remand, the cruise line has begun to adjust its drink menus. 

Here's how Royal Caribbean is catering to the younger demographic.

We asked our readers what one easy thing they do to make their cruise better

Room service

Are there any low-effort ways to improve your cruise experience?

We took to the Royal Caribbean Blog Facebook group to ask our readers what one easy thing they do that makes their vacation better.

From ordering room service to using a travel agent, these are the 12 easy things our readers do to make their cruise better.

Royal Caribbean News Round-Up: June 2, 2024

In:
02 Jun 2024

Happy Sunday! It is getting hot outside, and the Royal Caribbean news this week is equally heated.

Royal Caribbean launched an industry-first loyalty status match program for cruises.

Wonder of the Seas arrival Cococay

Members of Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society, Celebrity Cruises’ Captain’s Club and Silversea’s Venetian Society will attain equivalent tier status on any one of its brands to enjoy reciprocal benefits no matter which brand they sail with.

For example, a Diamond member of the Crown and Anchor Society will become an Elite Captain's Club member, and a Venetian Society with 250 VS days.

Royal Caribbean News

Things You Should NEVER TRUST on Your Cruise

Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video — Things You Should NEVER TRUST on Your Cruise — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

9 Things To Do As Soon As You Board A Cruise Ship

Royal Promenade

Your first hours onboard are some of the most important of your cruise vacation. They set the tone for the remainder of your sailing.

To ensure a smooth cruise, you'll want to start with a few important tasks.

Missing an item on this to-do list could ruin an ideal cruise, or even prevent the ship from embarking.

A performer on a mega cruise ship reveals what working at sea is really like

Kugler-4

What is it like to work, live, and perform on one of the largest cruise ships at sea?

We interviewed Kristine Kugler, an Elite Dancer in the Theater Cast onboard Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas.

She shared what it's like to be a crew member onboard a cruise ship with Royal Caribbean.

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

Freedom of the Seas at CocoCay

The 536th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available, reviewing a cruise on Freedom of the Seas in 2024.

Matt took his first cruise redeeming a casino credit, sailing for 4 nights on Freedom of the Seas. 

Please feel free to subscribe via iTunes or RSS, and head over to rate and review the podcast on iTunes if you can! We’d appreciate it.

Why savvy travelers prefer staying on the cruise ship during port days

Zipline on Harmony of the Seas

Experienced cruisers know the benefit of staying onboard the cruise ship and skipping a port day.

Many cruisers book a sailing for the destinations (and the food), but cruise ships also have a massive amount of attractions onboard.

Here are 7 reasons savvy travelers stay onboard the cruise ship.

Royal Caribbean News Round-Up: May 26, 2024

In:
26 May 2024

Happy Sunday and unofficial start to summer! Temperatures are rising, and so is the pace of cruise news to share with you this week.

Are you ready to try Royal Caribbean's new immersive and first-of-its-kind restaurant concept?

Utopia-Railway-Train-Car

Royal Railway - Utopia Station will debut this summer on Utopia of the Seas, and it's a fully themed restaurant experience that makes you feel like you're taking a train to the Old West.

We were able to preview the new train experience and get an idea of what you can expect when it opens.

Royal Caribbean News

Cruise Questions You Were Too EMBARASSED To Ask!

Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video — Cruise Questions You Were Too EMBARASSED To Ask! — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

Utopia station

The 535th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available, previewing Royal Railway.

Matt took a walkthrough tour of the new restaurant coming to Utopia of the Seas and shares what stood out about the experience and why he's excited to try it.

Please feel free to subscribe via iTunes or RSS, and head over to rate and review the podcast on iTunes if you can! We’d appreciate it.

I finally got to try Royal Caribbean's faster Express Boarding. It was so easy, but not everyone knows how to get it

Express Boarding sign

Matt was able to qualify for Royal Caribbean's new Express Boarding option.

This exclusive offer is only available at Terminal A of PortMiami, for guests who use the Royal Caribbean app to check in and complete the correct steps.

Not everyone knows how to get it, so here's your guide.

I went on my first Royal Caribbean cruise and worried about big crowds. I ended up having more fun than expected

Kate eating at Jamie's Italian

Angie's friend, Kate, experienced her first cruise on a Royal Caribbean mega-ship.

Before the Harmony of the Seas sailing, she worried about experiencing large crowds or long lines.

In the end, Kate was pleasantly surprised by her Royal Caribbean experience.

11 food favorites at CocoCay that never disappoint

At your next visit to Royal Caribbean's idyllic private island, don't miss these eleven food favorites.

From funnel cakes to secret sauce burgers to refreshing fruit, a wide variety of free dining is available at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Here are the best dishes you should try at each venue.

Would you pay $100 per day for a drink package?

Bamboo room drinks and crowd

The unlimited drink package is one of the most popular add-ons for a Royal Caribbean cruise, but prices are now consistently over $100 per day, per person.

While the cruise line does use dynamic pricing—meaning costs vary depending on the sailing—our team has consistently seen triple-digit prices.

Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Beverage Package includes almost every drink served onboard, from fruity cocktails, to beer, some wines by the glass, premium coffees, sodas, smoothies, bottled water, sports drinks, milkshakes, and freshly squeezed juice.

Royal Caribbean News Round-Up: May 19, 2024

In:
19 May 2024

Happy weekend! In case you missed any Royal Caribbean news, here is a look at everything that happened this week!

A new law will change how Royal Caribbean advertises its cruise fares.

Cruise ship docked in Miami

Beginning July 1, 2024, a new consumer protection law in California will require that taxes and fees are included as part of the total advertised price.

Instead of saving the fees for the checkout process, consumers will receive a clear and accurate price upfront.

Royal Caribbean News

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 534th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available!

After spending seven days on Icon of the Seas, Calista shares her thoughts on her new favorite ship.

Please feel free to subscribe via iTunes or RSS, and head over to rate and review the podcast on iTunes if you can! We’d appreciate it.

WEIRD cruise tips (if you've never cruised before!)

Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video — WEIRD cruise tips (if you've never cruised before!) — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

8 cruise ship cabin rules to follow — Plus 1 to break

Cabin rules to follow

While your cruise ship cabin is your home, you can't do anything you want either.

There are important rules and guidelines to follow while in your cabin, and it's a combination of etiquette and regulations.

We outline 8 rules to follow (and 1 you can safely ignore).

I go on a cruise once a month. New cruisers keep missing out on these 5 underrated things.

Pickleball

Matt cruises once a month, and it's still his favorite way to travel and see the world.

After getting to experiment and try so many types of cruises, he's noticed some underrated activities.

Check out these 5 things that you shouldn't miss out on when you cruise next.

I spent a week on the world's largest cruise ship, the free food was the best of any Royal Caribbean ship

Calista made it a goal to try all the complimentary food onboard Icon of the Seas.

After a week onboard, she concluded that the ship has the best free food in Royal Caribbean's fleet.

From Mediterranean bowls at the Aquadome Market to breakfast pastries at the Park Café, here are the pros and cons of every complimentary venue she tried.

I planned out 6 years of cruises so I could reach Royal Caribbean's highest loyalty tier

This couple went to extensive lengths to reach the Pinnacle level in Royal Caribbean's customer loyalty program.

The Notarnicolas made a detailed plan to gain these quality benefits.

They used a complex Excel spreadsheet and a host of other tools to track their progress and plan the cruises they needed to take to reach the Pinnacle level.

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